PRBC Ratio Research Articles

FINDING THE SWEET SPOT: THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN WHOLE BLOOD TO RED BLOOD CELLS RATIO AND OUTCOMES OF HEMORRHAGING CIVILIAN TRAUMA PATIENTS.

Purpose: To evaluate the dose-dependent effect of whole blood (WB) on the outcomes of civilian trauma patients with hemorrhagic shock. Methods: We performed a 2-year (2020-2021) retrospective analysis of the ACS-TQIP dataset. Adult (≥18) trauma patients with a shock index (SI) >1 who received at least 5 units of PRBC and one unit of WB within the first 4 h of admission were included. Primary outcomes were 6-h, 24-h, and in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were major complications and hospital and intensive care unit length of stay. Results: A total of 830 trauma patients with a mean (SD) age of 38 (16) were identified. The median [IQR] 4-h WB and PRBC requirements were 2 [2-4] U and 10 [7-15] U, respectively, with a median WB:RBC ratio of 0.2 [0.1-0.3]. Every 0.1 increase in WB:RBC ratio was associated with decreased odds of 24-h mortality (aOR: 0.916, P = 0.035) and in-hospital mortality (aOR: 0.878, P < 0.001). Youden's index identified 0.25 (1 U of WB for every 4 U of PRBC) as the optimal WB:PRBC ratio to reduce 24-h mortality. High ratio (≥0.25) group had lower adjusted odds of 24-h mortality (aOR: 0.678, P = 0.021) and in-hospital mortality (aOR: 0.618, P < 0.001) compared to the low ratio group. Conclusions: A higher WB:PRBC ratio was associated with improved early and late mortality in trauma patients with hemorrhagic shock. Given the availability of WB in trauma centers across the United States, at least one unit of WB for every 4 units of packed red blood cells may be administered to improve the survival of hemorrhaging civilian trauma patients.

Maintaining a Whole Blood-Centered Transfusion Improves Survival in Hemorrhagic Resuscitation.

Whole blood (WB) transfusion has been shown to improve mortality in trauma resuscitation. The optimal ratio of packed red blood cells (pRBC) to WB in emergent transfusion has not been determined. We hypothesized that a low pRBC:WB transfusion ratio is associated with improved survival in trauma patients. We analyzed the 2021 Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database to identify patients who underwent emergent surgery for hemorrhage control and were transfused within four hours of hospital arrival, excluding transfers or deaths in the emergency department. We stratified patients based on pRBC:WB ratios. The primary outcome was mortality at 24 hours. Logistic regression was performed to estimate odds of mortality among ratio groups compared to WB alone, adjusting for injury severity, time to intervention, and demographics. Our cohort included 17,562 patients; of those, 13,678 patients had only pRBC transfused and were excluded. FFP:pRBC ratio was balanced in all groups. Among those who received WB (n = 3,884), there was a significant increase in 24-hour mortality with higher pRBC:WB ratios (WB alone 5.2%, 1:1 10.9%, 2:1 11.8%, 3:1 14.9%, 4:1 20.9%, 5:1 34.1%, p = 0.0001). Using empirical cutpoint estimation we identified a 3:1 ratio or less as an optimal cutoff point. Adjusted odds ratios of 24-hour mortality for 4:1 and 5:1 groups were 2.85 (95% CI: 1.19 - 6.81) and 2.89 (95% CI: 1.29 - 6.49), respectively. Adjusted hazard ratios of 24-hour mortality were 2.83(95%CI: 1.18 - 6.77) for 3:1 ratio, 3.67(95%CI: 1.57 - 8.57) for 4:1 ratio, and 1.97(95%CI: 0.91 - 4.23) for 5:1 ratio. Our analysis shows that higher pRBC:WB ratios at 4 hours diminished survival benefits of WB in trauma resuscitation. Further efforts should emphasize this relationship to optimize trauma resuscitation protocols.

Massive blood transfusion following older adult trauma: The effect of blood ratios on mortality.

Massive blood transfusion (MBT) following older adult trauma poses unique challenges. Despite extensive evidence on optimal resuscitative strategies in the younger adult patients, there is limited research in the older adult population. We used the Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database from 2013 to 2017 to identify all patients over 65 years old who received a MBT. We stratified our population into six fresh-frozen plasma:packed red blood cell (FFP:pRBC) ratio cohorts (1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6+). Our primary outcomes were 24-h and 30-day mortality. We constructed multivariable regression models with 1:1 group as the baseline and adjusted for confounders to estimate the independent effect of blood ratios on mortality. A total of 3134 patients met our inclusion criteria (median age 73 ± 7.6 years, 65% male). On risk-adjusted multivariable analysis, 1:1 FFP:pRBC ratio was independently associated with lowest 24-h mortality (1:2 odds ratio [OR]1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]1.25-2.06, p < 0.001) and 30-day mortality (1:2 OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.15-1.80, p=0.002). Compared to all other ratios, the 1:1 FFP:pRBC ratio had the lowest 24-h and 30-day mortality following older adult trauma consistent with findings in the younger adult population.

Low Volume Blood Product Transfusion Patterns And Ratios After Injury

BackgroundThe benefit of a balanced resuscitation in low volume transfusions remains unclear This study is aimed at characterizing blood product ratios in this cohort. MethodsA retrospective analysis (2017–2019) of the ACS TQIP was performed to identify adult trauma patients who received ≥1 unit of packed red blood cells (pRBCs) 4 and 24 h after admission. Blood products received were used to calculate plasma and platelet ratios. ResultsPlasma and platelet ratios were closer to the target 1:1 ratio for ≤4 units pRBCs. Plasma and platelet ratios increased for those receiving ≤10 units pRBCs, demonstrating increasingly unbalanced resuscitation. Transfusion ratios were unbalanced for those receiving ≥5 units pRBC. ConclusionTransfusion ratios were closer to the desired transfusion ratio for low volume blood product resuscitation. In those receiving ≥5 units pRBC, plasma and platelet ratios were not balanced. The optimal transfusion ratio in low volume trauma resuscitation is unknown.

Implementation of a low-titer stored whole blood transfusion program for civilian trauma patients: Early experience and logistical challenges

Cold-stored low titer group O whole blood (LTOWB) is increasingly utilized in the initial resuscitation of exsanguinating trauma patients. We report on our early experience with LTOWB, focusing on logistics, implementation challenges, and outcomes. In February, 2019, LTOWB was incorporated into the massive transfusion protocol (MTP) activated for trauma patients in the emergency department (ED.) Up to 4 units of LTOWB were included in the MTP cooler, depending on availability, and were transfused prior to transfusion of any other blood products from the MTP cooler. Demographics, injury characteristics, and outcomes were obtained, and the logistics of LTOWB availability were reviewed. Over a 12-month period, MTP was activated for 74 trauma patients. Of those, 38 (51%) MTP included at least one unit of LTOWB, with 19/38 (50%) including 4 LTOWB units. A total of 177 units of LTOWB were purchased during the study period, and of those, 74 (42%) expired before use. Patients who received LTOWB had a similar mortality compared to those who received component therapy (39% vs. 47%; Odds Ratio [95% CI]: 0.7 [0.3, 2.0]; p=0.72,) however, they were able to achieve a significantly higher plasma:pRBC ratio during the duration of MTP activation (mean [SD] 0.8 [0.2] vs. 0.4 [0.4]; mean difference [95% CI]: 0.4 [0.2, 0.5]; p<0.01.) CONCLUSIONS: Our early experience with LTOWB transfusion demonstrates feasibility, but also highlights challenges with inventory management. These findings triggered changes to our protocol aiming at minimizing wastage. The use of LTOWB may yield a higher plasma:pRBC ratio early during the resuscitation period. Further investigation is required to explore whether this may yield a survival advantage. III (Therapeutic/Care Management).

Fresh Frozen Plasma-to-Packed Red Blood Cell Ratio and Mortality in Traumatic Hemorrhage: Nationwide Analysis of 4,427 Patients

Despite the presence of highly reliable data, studies on packed red blood cells (pRBC):fresh frozen plasma (FFP) ratio suffer from limited sample size and the presence of survivor bias. We sought to study the association between FFP:pRBC and early mortality in the hemorrhaging trauma patient. This was a retrospective nationwide cohort that included all TQIP participating hospitals (2013 to 2016). We included all trauma patients who were transfused ≥10 pRBCs and ≥1 FFP within 24 hours. We excluded transferred patients and those who died in the emergency department or had missing/inaccurate transfusion data. Patients were assigned to 7 FFP:pRBC cohorts (range 1:1 to 1:6, and 1:6+) only if the ratio was similar at 4 and 24 hours and, to avoid survival bias, were excluded otherwise. Multivariable analyses correcting for all available confounders (age, demographics, comorbidities, vital signs, Injury Severity Score [ISS] and mechanism, procedures performed) were derived to study the independent relationship between FFP:pRBC and 24-hour mortality. Of 1,002,595 patients, 4,427 patients were included. Mean age was 41 years, 79% were males, 61% had blunt trauma, and median ISS was 29. Most patients were transfused in a 1:1, 1:2, or 1:3 ratio (31%, 41%, and 11%, respectively); mortality ranged between 28% for 1:1 and 62% for 1:4. In multivariable analyses, the odds of mortality independently and incrementally increased to 1.23 (95% CI 1.02 to 1.48) for a 1:2 ratio, 2.11 (95% CI 1.42 to 3.13) for 1:4, and as high as 4.11 (95% CI 2.31 to 7.31) for 1:5 (all p < 0.05). A 1:1 FFP:pRBC ratio is associated with the lowest mortality in the hemorrhaging trauma patient, and mortality increases with decreasing ratios.

A 1:1 FFP to pRBC Ratio is Not Required for the Correction of Posttraumatic Coagulopathy after Activation of a Massive Transfusion Protocol

A 1:1 FFP to pRBC Ratio is Not Required for the Correction of Posttraumatic Coagulopathy after Activation of a Massive Transfusion Protocol

The use of massive transfusion protocol for trauma and non-trauma patients in a civilian setting: what can be done better?

Massive transfusion protocol (MTP) is increasingly used in civilian trauma cases to achieve better haemostatic resuscitation in patients requiring massive blood transfusions (MTs), with improved survival outcomes. However, in non-trauma patients, evidence for MTP is lacking. This study aims to assess the outcomes of a newly established MTP in a civilian setting, for both trauma and non-trauma patients, in an acute surgical care unit. A retrospective cohort analysis was performed on 46 patients for whom MTP was activated in Changi General Hospital, Singapore. The patients were categorised into trauma and non-trauma groups. Assessment of Blood Consumption (ABC) score was used to identify MTP trauma patients and analyse over-activation rates. Only 39.1% of all cases with MTP activation eventually received MTs; 39.8% of the MTs were for non-trauma patients. Mean fresh frozen plasma to packed red blood cells (pRBC) ratio achieved with MTP was 0.741, while mean platelet to pRBC ratio was 0.213. The 24-hour mortality rate for all patients who received an MT upon MTP activation was 33.3% (trauma vs. non-trauma group: 45.5% vs. 14.3%). The ABC scoring system used for trauma patients had a sensitivity and specificity of 81.8% and 41.2%, respectively. MTP may be used for both trauma and non-trauma patients in acute care surgery. Scoring systems to predict the need for an MT, improved compliance to predefined transfusion ratios and regular reviews of the MTP are necessary to optimise MTPs and to improve the outcomes of patients receiving MTs.

The survival impact of plasma to red blood cell ratio in massively transfused non-trauma patients.

High ratios of Plasma to Packed Red Blood Cells (FFP:PRBC) improve survival in massively transfused trauma patients. We hypothesized that non-trauma patients also benefit from this transfusion strategy. Non-trauma patients requiring massive transfusion from November 2003 to September 2011 were reviewed. Logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of mortality. The population was stratified using two FFP:PRBC ratio cut-offs (1:2 and 1:3) and adjusted mortality derived. Over 8years, 29% (260/908) of massively transfused surgical patients were non-trauma patients. Mortality decreased with increasing FFP:PRBC ratios (45% for ratio ≤1:8, 33% for ratio >1:8 and ≤1:3, 27% for ratio >1:3 and ≤1:2 and 25% for ratio >1:2). Increasing FFP:PRBC ratio independently predicted survival (AOR [95% CI]: 1.91 [1.35-2.71]; p<0.001). Patients achieving a ratio >1:3 had improved survival (AOR [95% CI]: 3.24 [1.24-8.47]; p=0.016). In non-trauma patients undergoing massive transfusion, increasing FFP:PRBC ratio was associated with improved survival. A ratio >1:3 significantly improved survival probability.

The impact of increased plasma ratios in massively transfused trauma patients: a prospective analysis.

Transfusion ratios approaching 1:1 FFP:PRBC for trauma resuscitation have become the de facto standard of care. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the effect of increasing ratios of FFP:PRBC transfusion on survival for massively transfused civilian trauma patients as well as determine if time to reach the target ratio had any effect on outcomes. This is a prospective, observational study of all trauma patients requiring a massive transfusion (≥10 PRBC in ≤24h) at a level 1 trauma center over a 2.5-year period. The ratio of FFP:PRBC was tracked hourly up to 24h post-initiation of massive transfusion. A logistic regression model was utilized to identify the ideal ratio associated with mortality prediction. A stepwise logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of mortality. The study population was predominantly male (89%) with a mean age of 34.8±16. On admission, 22% had a systolic blood pressure ≤90mmHg, 47% had a heart rate ≥120, and 25% had a GCS ≤8. The overall mortality was 33%. The ratio of FFP:PRBC≥1:1.5 was the second most important independent predictor of mortality for this population (R (2)=0.59). Survivors had a higher FFP:PRBC ratio at all times during the first 24h of resuscitation. Achieving a ratio of FFP:PRBC≥1:1.5 after the initial 24h of resuscitation significantly improves survival in massively transfused trauma patients compared to patients that achieved a ratio <1:1.5.

Balanced ratio of plasma to packed red blood cells improves outcomes in massive transfusion: A large multicenter study.

Resuscitation with the early administration of plasma can improve the survival of patients undergoing surgery or trauma patients who require massive transfusion. To ascertain the optimal ratio of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) to packed red blood cells (pRBCs) in massive transfusions, the records of 1,048 patients who received a massive transfusion at 20 hospitals were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were stratified into three groups according to the ratio of FFP to pRBCs. These were the low (<1:2.3), middle (1:2.3-0.75) and high (≥1:0.75) ratio groups. For 24-h treatment, the middle FFP:pRBC ratio led to a lower mortality rate (9.31%) compared with that in the low (11.83%) and high (11.44%) ratio groups (P=0.477). For 72-h treatment, the middle FFP:pRBC ratio also lead to the lowest mortality rate (7.25%), which was significantly lower than the ratios in the low (10.39%) and high (13.65%) ratio groups (P=0.007). The length of hospital stay, ICU stay, and FFP:pRBC ratio in 72 h were found to be significant associated with mortality. The optimal ratio of FFP to pRBCs of 1:2.3-0.75 in 72 h can improve the survival of patients undergoing massive transfusions.

Outcomes of endovascular management of acute thoracic aortic emergencies in an academic level 1 trauma center

BackgroundThoracic aortic emergencies account for 10% of thoracic-related admissions in the United States and remain associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Open repair has declined owing to the emergence of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), but data on emergency TEVAR use for acute aortic pathology remain limited. We therefore reviewed our experience. MethodsWe retrospectively evaluated emergency descending thoracic aortic endovascular interventions performed at a single academic level 1 trauma center between January 2005 and August 2013 including all cases of traumatic aortic injury, ruptured descending thoracic aneurysm, penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer, aortoenteric fistula, and acute complicated type B dissection. Demographics, clinical data, and outcomes were extracted. Stepwise logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for death. ResultsDuring the study period, 51 patients underwent TEVAR; 22 cases (43.1%) were performed emergently (11 patients [50.0%] traumatic aortic injury; 4 [18.2%] ruptured descending thoracic aneurysm; 4 [18.2%] complicated type B dissection; 2 [9.1%] penetrating aortic ulcer; and 1 [4.5%] aortoenteric fistula). Overall, 72.7% (n = 16) were male with a mean age of 54.8 ± 15.9 years. Nineteen patients (86.4%) required only a single TEVAR procedure, whereas 2 (9.1%) required additional endovascular therapy, and 1 (4.5%) open thoracotomy. Four traumatic aortic injury patients required exploratory laparotomy for concomitant intra-abdominal injuries. During a mean hospital length of stay of 18.9 days (range, 1 to 76 days), 3 patients (13.6%) developed major complications. In-hospital mortality was 27.2%, consisting of 6 deaths from traumatic brain injury (1); exsanguination in the operating room before repair could be achieved (2); bowel ischemia (1) and multisystem organ failure (1); and family withdrawal of care (1). A stepwise logistic regression model identified 24-hour packed red blood cell requirements ≥4 units, admission mean arterial pressure <60 mm Hg, and 24-hour fresh frozen plasma to packed red blood cell (pRBC) ratio <1:1.5 as independent risk factors for death in this cohort. During a mean follow-up of 369 days (range, 35 to 957 days), no subsequent major complications or deaths occurred. All patients underwent serial computed tomographic angiography surveillance, and no device-related problems were identified during intermediate follow-up. ConclusionsThoracic aortic emergencies remain challenging. Our experience in a moderate-volume center supports the utilization of TEVAR in the acute setting. Twenty-four-hour pRBC requirements ≥4 units, admission mean arterial pressure <60 mm Hg, and 24 hour fresh frozen plasma to pRBC ratio <1:1.5 were independently associated with death.

Application of damage control resuscitation strategies to patients with severe traumatic hemorrhage: review of plasma to packed red blood cell ratios at a single institution

When treating trauma patients with severe hemorrhage, massive transfusions are often needed. Damage control resuscitation strategies can be used for such patients, but an adequate fresh frozen plasma: packed red blood cell (FFP:PRBC) administration ratio must be established. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 100 trauma patients treated with massive transfusions from March 2010 to October 2012. We divided the patients into 2 groups according to the FFP:PRBC ratio: a high-ratio (≥ 0.5) and a lowratio group (< 0.5). The patient demographics, fluid and transfusion quantities, laboratory values, complications, and outcomes were analyzed and compared. There were 68 patients in the high-ratio and 32 in the low-ratio group. There were statistically significant differences between groups in the quantities of FFP, FFP:PRBC, platelets, and crystalloids administered, as well as the initial diastolic blood pressure. Bloodstream infections were noted only in the high-ratio group, and the difference was statistically significant ( P = 0.028). Kaplan-Meier plots revealed that the 24-hr survival rate was significantly higher in the high-ratio group (71.9% vs. 97.1%, P < 0.001). In severe hemorrhagic trauma, raising the FFP:PRBC ratio to 0.5 or higher may increase the chances of survival. Efforts to minimize bloodstream infections during the resuscitation must be increased.

Application of damage control resuscitation strategies to patients with severe traumatic hemorrhage: review of plasma to packed red blood cell ratios at a single institution.

When treating trauma patients with severe hemorrhage, massive transfusions are often needed. Damage control resuscitation strategies can be used for such patients, but an adequate fresh frozen plasma: packed red blood cell (FFP:PRBC) administration ratio must be established. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 100 trauma patients treated with massive transfusions from March 2010 to October 2012. We divided the patients into 2 groups according to the FFP:PRBC ratio: a high-ratio (≥0.5) and a low-ratio group (<0.5). The patient demographics, fluid and transfusion quantities, laboratory values, complications, and outcomes were analyzed and compared. There were 68 patients in the high-ratio and 32 in the low-ratio group. There were statistically significant differences between groups in the quantities of FFP, FFP:PRBC, platelets, and crystalloids administered, as well as the initial diastolic blood pressure. Bloodstream infections were noted only in the high-ratio group, and the difference was statistically significant (P=0.028). Kaplan-Meier plots revealed that the 24-hr survival rate was significantly higher in the high-ratio group (71.9% vs. 97.1%, P<0.001). In severe hemorrhagic trauma, raising the FFP:PRBC ratio to 0.5 or higher may increase the chances of survival. Efforts to minimize bloodstream infections during the resuscitation must be increased.Graphical

Impact of Crystalloid to PRBC Ratio in Patients with Exsanguinating Penetrating Abdominal Injuries: The Conundrum of Resuscitation

ABSTRACTBackgroundWhen intraoperative hemostatic resuscitation (IHR) implements high transfusion ratios of FFP:PRBC (&gt;1:2), there is an associated increased survival in patients with exsanguinating penetrating abdominal injuries (EPAI). The impact of crystalloids: PRBC during IHR has not been analyzed. We hypothesize that minimizing the amount of intraoperative crystalloids:PRBC in combination with high ratio FFP: PRBC will correlate with a survival benefit in patients with EPAI.MethodsThis was a 9-year retrospective analysis of patients with EPAI at a Level 1 Trauma Center. EPAI was defined as any patient who received &gt;20 units of PRBC during IHR. Intraoperative ratio for FFP:PRBC was recorded, and patients were placed in three separate categories accordingly: high (&gt;1:2), mid (1:4 - 1:2), and low ratio (&lt;1:4) groups. Quantity of crystalloids used during each category was recorded and a ratio of crystalloids:PRBC calculated. Logistic regression model was applied to analyze impact of crystalloid:PRBC on mortality, comparing the high FFP:PRBC ratio group to the low FFP: PRBC ratio group.ResultsIntraoperative high ratio FFP:PRBC conveyed a 32% overall survival benefit when compared with low ratio groups. Patients that received a high ratio FFP:PRBC when compared to low ratio group, received less intraoperative crystalloids (calculated crystalloids:PRBC ratios 1:3.4vs1:1.1; p = 0.001). Our logistic regression demonstrated a survival benefit with a high FFP:PRBC [OR 95%;0.19 , CI (0.05-0.33), p = 0.003] and the calculated low crystalloid:PRBC [OR 95%; 0.11 CI (0.01- 0.59), p = 0.001].ConclusionWe were able to demonstrate a survival advantage in patients with EPAI that received IHR of a high ratio of FFP:PRBC and a low ratio of crystalloids:PRBC. These findings suggest that in patients with EAPI requiring massive volumes of PRBC, the ratio of intraoperative FFP:PRBC should be high and crystalloids:PRBC should be low.How to cite this articleGuidry C, Unruh M, Duke M, Meade P, McSwain NE Jr, Duchesne JC. Impact of Crystalloid to PRBC Ratio in Patients with Exsanguinating Penetrating Abdominal Injuries: The Conundrum of Resuscitation. Panam J Trauma Critical Care Emerg Surg 2013;2(1):52-57.

Impact of Low Fibrinogen Levels in the Puzzle of Traumainduced Coagulopathy: Is This the Missing Link?

ABSTRACT Background Patients with severe tissue injury and tissue hypoperfusion can present with low fibrinogen levels and signs of hyperfibrinolysis. The role of damage control resuscitation (DCR) in addressing the hyperfibrinolytic aspect of trauma induced coagulopathy (TIC) is unknown. We hypothesize a survival advantage when DCR is used in TIC patients with severe tissue injury and low fibrinogen levels. Materials and methods This is a 2 years prospective observational study of TIC patients who received DCR. TIC was defined as initial base deficit = –6 in combination with ISS = 12. Low fibrinogen was considered when serum level &lt;200 mg/dl. Patients were stratified into those with an injury severity score (ISS) &lt;20, and those with an ISS = 20. Variables analyzed between groups included: initial serum fibrinogen, INR, base deficit, intraoperative FFP: PRBC ratio and mortality. Results Of 67 patients with TIC, 29 (43.2%) had ISS &lt; 20, and 38 (56.7%) an ISS ≥ 20. Mean ISS was 13.9 vs 32.8 (p &lt; 0.0001) for the ISS &lt; 20 group vs the ISS ≥ 20 group respectively. Mean initial fibrinogen levels for the ISS &lt; 20 group vs the ISS ≥ 20 group was 357.4 mg/dl vs 148.5 mg/dl (p = 0.0007). Intraoperative DCR with FFP: PRBC for the ISS &lt; 20 group vs the ISS ≥ 20 group showed no statistical difference: 1 to 1.12 vs 1 to 1.3 (p = 0.12). Overall mortality after controlling for DCR in the ISS &lt; 20 group was 29 and 73% in the ISS ≥ 20 group (p = 0.0007). In a stepwise logistic regression, low fibrinogen levels was associated with mortality, p = 0.01; OR 1.01 (1.23-11.55) with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.701. The correlation coefficient for ISS vs initial fibrinogen level was –0.5635 (p = 0.0001). Conclusion Overall mortality was significantly increased in patients who had an ISS . 20 with low fibrinogen level despite effective DCR. Given the correlated decrease in fibrinogen levels in patients with severe tissue injury, further investigation regarding potential benefits of antifibrinolytic agents in DCR needs further validation. How to cite this article Duchesne JC, Guidry C, Park TS, Simms E, Hoffman JRH, Bock JM, Wascom J, Barbeau J, Meade P, McSwain NE Jr. Impact of Low Fibrinogen Levels in the Puzzle of Trauma-induced Coagulopathy: Is This the Missing Link? Panam J Trauma Critical Care Emerg Surg 2013;2(2): 74-79.

Defining the need for blood and blood products transfusion following suicide bombing attacks on a civilian population: A level I single-centre experience

IntroductionKnowledge of patterns of blood use in the care of mass casualty settings is important for preparedness of medical centre resources and for maximising survival when blood supplies are limited. Our objectives were to review of our experience with the use of blood products and define the utilisation of blood transfusion following suicide bombing attacks. Patients and methodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of blood and blood product transfusion following civilian bombing attacks at a level I trauma centre in Jerusalem, Israel from 2000 to 2005. The study group consisted of 137 patients who were admitted following 17 suicide bombing attacks which were carried out in Jerusalem during the 5-year period. Demographic data, number of units of blood and blood products transfused and the need for massive transfusions were recorded and analyzed. ResultsFifty-three patients received blood transfusions (38.7%). There were 33 males (62.2%) with a median ISS of 13 (range 4–25). These 53 patients received 524 PRBC, 42 WB, and 449 FFP. The mean number of PRBC transfused/admitted patient was 3.82 units (range 0–59). Thirty patients (21.9%) received 236 PRBC (45% of total PRBC) at the first 2h. The ratio of ordered to transfused blood was 946:524. The FFP:PRBC ratio for all transfused patients was 1:1.17. The number of PRBC transfused per attack correlated with the number of patients admitted per attack. The most commonly transfused blood type was A (52.3%). Only 18 units of uncrossed-matched blood were transfused (3.3% of total). 14 patients (10.2%) received massive transfusions. These patients received 399 PRBC (76.1% of total units transfused) and the average number of PRBC transfused was 28.5/patient (10–59). ConclusionsMore than 1/3 of casualties admitted following civilian bombing attacks received transfusions, most in the first 2h. Large-scale attacks will require more blood and blood products than small-scale attacks. Twice the number of PRBC ordered than transfused reflects a known trend for over-triage during the initial assessment following bombing attacks. One tenth of patients received massive transfusion.

Changes in massive transfusion over time

Increasing evidence suggests that high fresh frozen plasma:packed red blood cell (FFP:PRBC) and platelet:PRBC (PLT:PRBC) transfusion ratios may prevent or reduce the morbidity associated with early coagulopathy which complicates massive transfusion (MT). We sought to characterize changes in resuscitation which have occurred over time in a cohort severely injured patients requiring MT. Data were obtained from a multicenter prospective cohort study evaluating outcomes in blunt injured adults with hemorrhagic shock. MT was defined as requiring ≥10 units PRBCs within 24 hours postinjury. Mean PRBC, FFP, and PLT requirements (per unit; 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours) were determined over time (2004-2009). Sub-MT, those patients just below the threshold for MT, were defined as requiring ≥7 and <10 units PRBCs in the initial 24 hours. The percent of resuscitation given at 6 hours relative to 24 hours total (6 of 24%) was determined and compared across "early" (admission until December 2007) and "recent" (after December 2007) periods for each component. Over the study time period (2004-2009) for the MT group (n = 526), initial base deficit and presenting international normalized ratio were unchanged, while Injury Severity Score was significantly higher. The percent of patients who required MT overall significantly decreased over time. No significant differences were found over time for six-hour, 12-hour, or 24-hour FFP:PRBC and PLT:PRBC transfusion ratios in MT patients. Sub-MT patients (n = 344) had significantly higher six-hour FFP:PRBC ratios and significantly higher six-hour,12-hour, and 24-hour PLT:PRBC ratios in the recent time period. The six h/24 h% total for FFP and PLT transfusion was significantly greater in the recent time period. (FFP: 54% vs.70%; p = 0.004 and PLT 46% vs. 61%; p = 0.048). In a severely injured cohort requiring MT, FFP:PRBC and PLT:PRBC ratios have not changed over time, whereas the rate of MT overall has significantly decreased. During the recent time period (after December 2007), significantly higher transfusion ratios and a greater percent of 6-hour/24-hour FFP and PLT were found in the sub-MT group, those patients just below the PRBC transfusion threshold definition of MT. These data suggest early, more aggressive attainment of high transfusions ratios may reduce the requirement for MT and may shift overall blood requirements below those which currently define MT. Further prospective evidence is required to verify these findings.

The Impact of Platelet Transfusion in Massively Transfused Trauma Patients

Abstract : BACKGROUND: The impact of platelet transfusion in trauma patients undergoing a massive transfusion (MT) was evaluated. STUDY DESIGN: The Institutional Trauma Registry and Blood Bank Database at a Level I trauma center was used to identify all patients requiring an MT ( greater than or equal to 10 packed red blood cells [PRBC] within 24 hours of admission). Mortality was evaluated according to 4 apheresis platelet (aPLT):PRBC ratios: Low ratio (less than 1:18), medium ratio (greater than or equal to 1:18 and less than 1:12), high ratio (greater than or equal to 1:12 and less than 1:6), and highest ratio (greater than or equal to 1:6). RESULTS: Of 32,289 trauma patients, a total of 657 (2.0%) required an MT. At 24 hours, 171 patients (26.0%) received a low ratio, 77 (11.7%) a medium ratio, 249 (37.9%) a high ratio, and 160 (24.4%) the highest ratio of aPLT:PRBC. After correcting for differences between groups, the mortality at 24 hours increased in a stepwise fashion with decreasing aPLT:PRBC ratio. Using the highest ratio group as a reference, the adjusted relative risk of death was 1.67 (adjusted p = 0.054) for the high ratio group,2.28(adjusted p = 0.013)for the medium ratio group ,and 5.51 (adjusted p less than 0.001) for the low ratio group. A similar stepwise increase in mortality with decreasing platelet ratio was observed at 12 hours after admission and for overall survival to discharge. After stepwise logistic regression, a high aPLT:PRBC ratio (adjusted p less than 0.001) was independently associated with improved survival at 24 hours. CONCLUSIONS: For injured patients requiring a massive transfusion, as the apheresis platelet-to-red cell ratio increased, a stepwise improvement in survival was seen. Prospective evaluation of the role of platelet transfusion in massively transfused patients is warrand.

Balanced massive transfusion ratios in multiple injury patients with traumatic brain injury

IntroductionRetrospective studies have demonstrated a potential survival benefit from transfusion strategies using an early and more balanced ratio between fresh frozen plasma (FFP) concentration and packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusions in patients with acute traumatic coagulopathy requiring massive transfusions. These results have mostly been derived from non-head-injured patients. The aim of the present study was to analyze whether a regime using a high FFP:pRBC transfusion ratio (FFP:pRBC ratio >1:2) would be associated with a similar survival benefit in severely injured patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) (Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) score, head ≥3) as demonstrated for patients without TBI requiring massive transfusion (≥10 U of pRBCs).MethodsA retrospective analysis of severely injured patients from the Trauma Registry of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Unfallchirurgie (TR-DGU) was conducted. Inclusion criteria were primary admission, age ≥16 years, severe injury (Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥16) and massive transfusion (≥10 U of pRBCs) from emergency room to intensive care unit (ICU). Patients were subdivided into patients with TBI (AIS score, head ≥3) and patients without TBI (AIS score, head <3), as well as according to the transfusion ratio they had received: high FFP:pRBC ratio (FFP:pRBC ratio >1:2) and low FFP:pRBC ratio (FFP:pRBC ratio ≤1:2). In addition, morbidity and mortality between the two groups were compared.ResultsA total of 1,250 data sets of severely injured patients from the TR-DGU between 2002 and 2008 were analyzed. The mean patient age was 42 years, the majority of patients were male (72.3%), the mean ISS was 41.7 points (±15.4 SD) and the principal mechanism of injury was blunt force trauma (90%). Mortality was statistically lower in the high FFP:pRBC ratio groups versus the low FFP:pRBC ratio groups, regardless of the presence or absence of TBI and across all time points studied (P < 0.001). The frequency of sepsis and multiple organ failure did not differ among groups, except for sepsis in patients with TBI who received a high FFP:pRBC ratio transfusion. Other secondary end points such as ventilator-free days, length of stay in the ICU and overall in-hospital length of stay differed significantly between the two study groups, but not when only data for survivors were analyzed.ConclusionsThese results add more detailed knowledge to the concept of a high FFP:pRBC ratio during early aggressive resuscitation, including massive transfusion, to decrease mortality in severely injured patients both with and without accompanying TBI. Future research should be conducted with a larger number of patients to prove these results in a prospective study.